Structural Engineering

Degrees Offered

What is Structural Engineering?

Structural engineering is the field of engineering particularly concerned with the design of load-bearing structures. The field crosses engineering disciplines, and structural engineering can be found within civil, mechanical, and aerospace engineering. Within civil engineering, it is largely the implementation of mechanics to the design of the large structures that are fundamental to basic living, such as buildings, bridges, walls, dams, and tunnels. Structural engineers need to design structures so that the structures do not collapse or behave in undesirable ways while serving their useful functions. The efficient use of funds and materials to achieve these structural goals is also a major concern. Structural engineers work closely with architects, construction managers, and transportation engineers, to name only a few.

Degree Information

Students can earn B.S., M.S., M.Eng. and Ph.D. degrees in civil engineering in the Structural Engineering Division of emphasis.

The undergraduate program in structural engineering is designed to provide students with a fundamental understanding of the basic sciences and engineering applied to structural systems. This bachelor’s degree provides opportunities in private industry, consulting firms and governmental agencies.

At Texas A&M University, the graduate program in structural engineering reinforces and subsequently builds upon students’ fundamental knowledge in presenting advanced techniques for the analysis and design of state-of-the-art structural systems. Our program offers graduate students outstanding opportunities in formal course work and independent research. A diversified curriculum provides broad latitude for students to plan individual programs of study. Graduates of the structural engineering program have become contributing design professionals, and many are influential leaders in the field today.

Undergraduate Requirements

To fulfill the common civil engineering program degree plan, undergraduate students declaring a specialty in structural engineering are required to complete a technical elective plan. See the undergraduate advising page for more information.

Graduate Requirements

Each area specialty area has its own graduate degree requirements in addition to the requirements set forth by the department and University. Please check with your advisor for the most current degree requirements.